Flight training organisation FTE Jerez is to purchase eight Diamond DA42-VI twin engine aircraft to upgrade and expand its current fleet of Piper Seneca twins and Warrior light trainers.

The first two are expected to arrive at FTE Jerez before year-end with further deliveries expected in 2013. Two state-of-the-art new generation Diamond Simulation FNPTII flight training devices will complement the acquisition of the new aircraft.

Oscar Sordo, ceo, says: "We are really excited about this. FTE has, for many years, been training pilots for some of the world's leading airlines. We are committed to continue delivering the best future captains to the industry, and to do this we need to use the best equipment. The acquisition of the latest state-of-the-art flight and simulation equipment makes good sense. The transition to a modern airline cockpit will be much easier from these glass cockpit equipped aircraft and the latest safety features that they offer."

The order has a list price value of six million euros, and is the result of an extensive evaluation of competing aircraft types. Powered by highly reliable and environmentally friendly Austro diesel engines, the new Diamond DA42-VI can be fuelled with all available jet fuel types. It is equipped with a Garmin G1000 glass cockpit including GFC700 automatic flight control system, and is air-conditioned to enhance the overall quality of training.

"We are honoured to be awarded with this contract from FTE Jerez, as it shows that the Diamond flight training concept meets the latest industry standards in regard to aircraft and simulator technology for airline oriented pilot training institutions," says Christian Dries, chairman and ceo of Diamond Aircraft.

FTE Jerez is a direct descendent of the previous British Aerospace Flying College at Prestwick in Scotland. In 1998 the school was relocated to Jerez and became FTE Jerez in 2003.